here’s to them

Photography by Stefano Altamura
On display at The Cloud Room Feb 13-March 10

Stefano Altamura originally got into photography with the sole objective of taking reference photos for his full time work as a figurative painter. Soon after getting his first camera in 2016, he began surfing here in the Pacific Northwest, purchasing a water housing kit and diving in, curious to capture the light and variation of the waves. Over time, these new ventures, paired with his partner’s career as a dancer, deepened his affinity for movement in nature and the human form. After the physicality of surfing and the excitement of a spontaneous subject like water, the challenges and possibilities in dance photography felt familiar. Shooting live performance required the same focus, forcing him to be present and adaptable in order to get the shot. With this catalyst into photography, he began to wonder if he could capture what he found in his paintings through dance photography: intimate frame and composition of the anatomy. Since then, he has worked with over 100 dance artists nationally and internationally as well as signed on as the official photographer for Seattle-based dance company, Whim W’him. Inspired by the dedication and risk-taking of dancers, he has strived to overcome the inertia of traditional photography by aiming to not just document but to capture each image as an evocative, stand-alone frame of the fleeting moment. Now, whether he is photographing surf, dance, fashion, or events, his unique and poignant painting framework plays out in his shots. 

“I've curated a collection of some of my favorites shots throughout the years from my experiences working with dancers and performers. I want the evening to be about showcasing their works and my deep appreciation for their support.”